Classic and Contemporary Poetry
MY MOTHER'S PRAYER, by T. C. O'KANE First Line: As I wandered round the homestead Last Line: Even from my trundle bed. Subject(s): Prayer; Mothers | ||||||||
As I WANDERED round the homestead, Many a dear, familiar spot Brought within my recollection Scenes I'd seemingly forgot. There the orchard meadow yonder, Here the deep, old-fashioned well, With its old moss-covered bucket, Sent a thrill no tongue can tell. Though the house was held by strangers, All remained the same within, Just as when a child I rambled Up and down and out and in. To the garret dark, ascending, Once a source of childish dread, Peering through the misty cobwebs, Lo, I saw my trundle bed. Quick, I drew it from the rubbish, Covered o'er with dust so long, When, behold, I heard, in fancy, Strains of one familiar song, Often sung by my dear mother To me in that trundle bed: "Hush, my dear, lie still and slumber, Holy angels guard thy bed." As I listened to the music, Stealing on in gentle strain, I am carried back to childhood, I am now a child again. 'Tis the hour of my retiring, At the dusky eventide, Near my trundle bed I'm kneeling, As of yore, by Mother's side. Hands are on my head so loving, As they were in childhood's days; I with weary tones am trying To repeat the words she says. 'Tis a prayer in language simple As a mother's lips can frame, "Father, Thou who art in Heaven, Hallowed ever be Thy name." Prayer is over, to my pillow, With a good-night kiss, I creep, Scarcely waking while I whisper, "Now I lay me down to sleep." Then my mother over me bending, Prays in earnest words but mild, "Hear my prayer, O Heavenly Father, Bless, O bless, my precious child." Yet I am but only dreaming, Ne'er I'll be a child again, Many years has that dear mother In the quiet churchyard lain. But the memory of her counsels O'er my path a light has spread, Daily calling me to heaven, Even from my trundle bed. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...MY MOTHER'S HANDS by ANDREW HUDGINS CONTINENT'S END by ROBINSON JEFFERS IN THE 25TH YEAR OF MY MOTHER'S DEATH by JUDY JORDAN THE PAIDLIN' WEAN by ALEXANDER ANDERSON BLASTING FROM HEAVEN by PHILIP LEVINE |
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